Shiv Telegram Media: Larian Studios chief asserts Baldurs Gate 3 wont be available on Game Pass
2 min read
Title: Baldur’s Gate 3 will not join Game Pass, Larian Studios Founder Explains Decision
In a recent interview with IGN, Swen Vincke, the founder of Larian Studios, revealed that Baldur’s Gate 3 will not be available on Microsoft’s Game Pass. Vincke stated that this decision was always part of the plan, as the game was never considered for placement on the popular subscription gaming platform.
The main reason behind this decision is based on perceived value. Vincke believes that Baldur’s Gate 3 is a “big game” that deserves to be valued and sold at a fair price. Unlike many other games these days, Baldur’s Gate 3 offers players a complete story and lacks microtransactions, meaning that players get exactly what they pay for.
The game’s extensive gameplay is another contributing factor. A completionist run in Baldur’s Gate 3 takes over 140 hours, which translates to approximately 40 cents per hour. Vincke argues that this makes the game a good value for players, further justifying the decision not to release it on Game Pass.
Furthermore, Larian Studios, being a small company, needs all the financial support it can get to continue developing other games. Selling full-price copies of Baldur’s Gate 3 will allow them to generate revenue and invest it into future projects.
This decision also sheds light on a broader issue within the gaming community regarding the impact of streaming subscription platforms like Game Pass on developers. Microsoft argues that Game Pass actually increases sales of included titles, as players may fall in love with certain games and want to own them outright. However, some developers view this as a lost opportunity for publishers.
Jim Ryan, the head of Sony, has criticized Game Pass, calling it “value destructive.” While this critique may be influenced by the competition between Microsoft and Sony, it reflects the concerns of some developers in the industry.
On the other hand, Starfield, a game available on Game Pass since its launch, still became the best-selling title of September, supporting Microsoft’s argument. However, some gamers may question the need to purchase games that are already accessible through a subscription service.
In the end, Larian Studios’ decision to keep Baldur’s Gate 3 off Game Pass reflects their commitment to providing players with a complete and valuable gaming experience. While the debate between subscription platforms and traditional game sales continues, it is clear that both developers and players have differing opinions on the matter.
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